Oplontis, 79 A.D.: colours on marble furnishing from the Villa of Poppaea

A groundbreaking analysis of the Villa of Poppaea in Oplontis reveals new insights into the pigments and conservation history of its marble furnishings. The study employed non-invasive imaging techniques to examine sculptures and reliefs, comparing results with analytical data and archaeological research. This approach uncovered previously unknown details about the vibrant colors used in the villa's ornate decorations, providing a deeper understanding of Roman artistic practices and preservation challenges. The findings contribute significantly to our knowledge of the Villa of Poppaea, one of the most opulent marble-furnished buildings of its time, destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D.

Bonini, A., Bracci, S., Liverani, P., Bartolozzi, G., Iannaccone, R., Lenzi, S., & Magrini, D. (2019). Oplontis, 79 A.D.: colours on marble furnishing from the Villa of Poppaea. Technè, 48, 90–99. https://doi.org/10.4000/techne.2482